SENTINEL SENTINEL
vol.ccxlix, no. 4 • April 2024
HORIZONS HORIZONS
By Rev. Patricia Farris
Easter bursts upon us, blossoming with new life all around in this new season in our lives and in the life of the church. Through Lent we have prayed: “May Spring come to us; be in us; and recreate new life in us!” Now our hearts overflow in the joy of the Resurrection.
Our Eastertide theme “The Joy We Share” was inspired by the old hymn “In the Garden.” The text by C. Austin Miles, 19c. pharmacist turned hymn-writer, celebrates the joy of resurrection shared with the Risen Christ. Of the garden and the presence of the Risen Lord, we sing of “the joy we share as we tarry there.”
The joy we share with our Risen Lord extends far beyond our own hearts to the life of the community of faith, to all with whom we share this joy. In this Eastertide season, we will share together in the baptism of both an infant and a young adult. We will join together to give the gift of life through our Red Cross-sponsored Blood Drive. We will be led in worship by a special visit of the Mark Twain Ringers alumni handbell choir. We rejoice in the love we share with one another in this community of faith.
A Celtic prayer puts it this way: “May we grow with the greening earth, grow from the ground of glory, grow in grateful wonder of You, Great Giver of this new day.”
Together may we grow into this new season in the life of First UMC Santa Monica. May the joy we share together fill our hearts with love and gratitude. May the unrealized potential of new life all ‘round expand our horizons and spring forth in our dreams. The Great Giver of this new day is with us and among us and always going on ahead of us into a future with hope and a new song to sing.
Springtime Jesus
by Joy Cowley
You, Springtime Jesus, just as I'd settled down for winter, you broke into my heart and danced your love right across it in a mad excess of giving.
Just as I'd got comfortable with bare branches and unfeeling, just as my world was neatly black and white, there you were, kicking up flowers all over the place.
Springtime Jesus, I tried to find a way to tell you that there were places Where you could or could not dance.
I wanted to guide you on my paths and have you sign the visitors' book: but you laughed right through my words and sang to me your melting song, causing sap to fire the branches, causing the flames of buds to flicker into green bonfires, causing a windquake of blossom, causing burstings, searings, breakings, causing growth-pain, causing life.
Springtime Jesus, the fullness of life can be frightening and I'm lacking in courage. It isn't easy to live with a heart that's wide open to invasion.
Teach me, Jesus, how to move with you, step for step, in your love dance. Touch my fears with your melting song. Gift me with your laughter, and, in the mystery of your Springtime, show me the truth of the blossoming Cross.
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF SANTA MONICA
APRIL ON-GOING MINISTRIES
• Men’s Bible Study Tuesdays, 7 a.m. via Zoom
• Open Space Young Adults April 17, 7 p.m.
• Listening Hearts Women’s Group April 3 & 17, Coffee and Connect: 10 a.m. Literati Cafe (12081 Wilshire Blvd, LA CA 90025) April 10 & 24, 6:30 p.m. via Zoom
WORSHIP IN THE SANCTUARY
We worship on Sundays at 10 a.m. in-person in the Sanctuary each week. If you feel ill, please choose to worship from home online.
COMMUNION SUNDAYS
The Rold Family will provide the bread for Communion Sunday. Berneice Southcott prepares the Communion elements before worship, with the help of Congregation Care Associate Anne Premer Mary Crawford and Rose Kujawa help take care of the elements after worship. Thank you all for your service!
WORSHIP ONLINE
We offer several options for participating in online worship. You may join in the service Livestream in real time or later at your convenience on these platforms:
Sundays 10 a.m. Worship Online LIVESTREAM on:
• Website: www.santamonicaumc.org/livestream After worship: www.santamonicaumc.org/sunday-servicearchive
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/santamonicaumc/live
• YouTube Channel: @SantaMonicaUMC
• The First UMC App: (download from the App Store, search FirstUMC_SM)
Let us know if you need assistance in joining online.
CHILDREN'S MINISTRY / SUNDAY SCHOOL
Jamie Jones, the Sunday School teachers, and a few other special guests offer a weekly Children’s Message at the beginning of worship each Sunday during. This means families begin worship in the Sanctuary before heading to Sunday School. You are invited to look around and greet a child and their family each Sunday. Let’s celebrate the joyful and lifefilled presence beloved children bring to our community each week! www.santamonicaumc.org/childrens-ministry
THE CHANCEL CHOIR
The Chancel Choir provides music every Sunday during the 10 a.m. Sanctuary Worship Service. Sing in the Chancel Choir! We always welcome new members who would like to sing with the choir! Rehearsals on Thursday evenings, and sing in church each Sunday morning. Contact Jim Smith if you are interested: djes@roadrunner.com
• Prayer Quilt Ministry Third Saturday of the month: Meeting April 20, Room 300
• The Chancel Choir Rehearsals on Thursdays 7:40 p.m. in the Choir Room
• Blood Pressure Screenings April 7, Fireside Room
• Nursery Care Sundays: 9:30 - 11 a.m. Room 204
• Sunday School for Kids Sundays, 10 a.m. in Room 206, for ages 2 and up.
• UMYF Youth Group Meets on Sundays, 6-8 p.m. Youth Lounge For more information on all of these programs, go to www.santamonicaumc.org
OPEN SPACE YOUNG ADULTS
A place of community for “youngish” adults (loosely in your 20’s, 30’s… even 40’s!). We seek to journey alongside one another in spiritual discovery, growth, and belonging. We gather monthly for conversations and connection. April meeting: April 17, 7 p.m. off-site
LISTENING HEARTS WOMEN’S GROUP
Listening Hearts is a group for women of all ages, grounded in the practices of sacred listening, prayer and reflection. We gather both in person and online weekly. On the first and third Wednesdays we meet in person at Literati Cafe, and for the second and fourth Wednesdays we meet via Zoom in the evening. All are welcome to join! Contact Tricia Guerrero to learn more: t.guerrero@santamonicaumc.org
April Meetings: April 3 & 17, Coffee and Connect: 10 a.m. Literati Cafe (12081 Wilshire Blvd, LA CA 90025) April 10 & 24, 6:30 p.m. via Zoom
YOUTH MINISTRY
Youth Group meets weekly, and is open to all 6th - 12th graders in the community. They gather on Sunday evenings in the Youth Lounge for dinner, games and a program or topic for discussion and reflection.
April Meetings: April 7 - Intergenerational Game Night, 6 - 8 p.m. April 14 , 21 & 28, 6 - 8 p.m. in the Youth Lounge
BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENINGS
The Health Ministry Council hosts Blood Pressure screenings once a month. We are grateful to this ministry for their continued care of the congregation!
Sunday, April 7, after worship in the Fireside Room
page2
IN-PERSON AND ONLINE
WORSHIP:
Dot Plukas leading the Children’s Message during worship
APRIL
ataGlance
Thurs April 4 Spring Bereavement Group at St. Monica's (orientation)
Fri April 5 Labyrinth/Chapel open for prayers
Sun April 7 Holy Communion / Rold Baptism
Methodist Scholarship Application process starts today, runs through May 5 Blood Pressure Screenings
Intergenerational Night with the Youth
Tue April 9 Methodist Foundation Meeting
Wed April 10 April Mid-Week Recital
Sat April 13 Kids Night Out
Sun April 14 Moments for Mission with Jane Spiegel
Mark Twain Ringers in worship
Mission Council Meeting
ThursApril18 TriciaGuerreroattendingMessyChurchConference
Sat April 20 Prayer Quilt Ministry meeting
Sun April 21 Weiss Baptism
Legacy Circle Luncheon
Sun April 28 Red Cross Blood Drive in Simkins Hall
Rev. Patricia Farris to General Conference United Women in Faith Book Read via Zoom
ST. MONICA’S SPRING BEREAVEMENT GROUP
St. Monica sponsors a 10-week peer support group that is cofacilitated by at least two bereavement ministers, who have also lost loved ones, and have received training to effectively and sensitively facilitate the group. Group participants are asked to commit to attending all sessions. Members join together to pray, reflect, and share their experiences. To help guide this process, we use The New Day Journal by Mauryeen O’Brien as the foundation for our sessions. For our Spring group, we're hosting a Zoom Orientation on Thursday, April 4, at 7 p.m., a chance to meet the facilitators and other prospective group members. After the Orientation, you can decide whether you'd like to join the group. The group will then meet weekly through June 13. Register: www.stmonica.net/ministries/pastoralcare/bereavement
WALK THE LABYRINTH & CHAPEL OPEN FOR PRAYERS
The Labyrinth is open every first Friday of the month from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., in Simkins Hall. If you’ve never walked the Labyrinth before, there are printed instructions to help with your walking meditation. For those unable to walk, we have finger labyrinths. The First UMC Chapel will also be open for prayers.
METHODIST FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS
Every year the Loans & Scholarships committee has the pleasure of acknowledging outstanding scholars, including graduating high school seniors, continuing undergraduates, and graduate students, for their scholastic excellence, commitment to community, and dedication to our church. To apply for this year’s scholarships, the application will be available April 7 on the website: www.santamonicaumc.org/methodistfoundation, or stop by the church office.
Methodist Scholarship Applications: April 7 - May 5
APRIL MID-WEEK RECITAL
The April Mid-Week Recital features:
The Elixer Trio: Lucy Nargizyan, piano; Samvel Chilingarian, violin; and Fang Fang Xu, cello. Winner of the Most Distinguished Musician award 2005 IBLA International Competition in Italy, the Elixir Piano Trio has appeared in performances in Europe, Mexico and the United States. Founded in 2004, the dynamic Elixir Piano Trio performs both traditional and modern repertoire with classical, folk, and jazz influences. Known for their unique and exciting interpretations, the Los Angeles based ensemble has dazzled audiences with their energy and sensitivity. The trio has become instrumental in promoting works by Contemporary composers. Visit the website for more info and past recitals: www.santamonicaumc.org/mid-week-recital-series
Wednesday, April 10, 12:10 p.m. ONLINE:
Facebook: @santamonicaumc • YouTube Channel : www.youtube/c/santamonicaumc • Website: www.santamonicaumc.org/livestream • The First UMC App: (To download, go to the App Store/ FirstUMC_SM)
KIDS NIGHT OUT
Kids Night Out will be back in April! While parents enjoy a well-deserved night out, children are provided a safe and fun evening of games, activities and crafts, pizza dinner, and a movie with our trained childcare team. $35/child + $15 for each additional sibling, 2 years – 5th grade. Sign-up now on the website: www.santamonicaumc.org/kids-night-out
Saturday, April 13, 4 – 8 p.m. in the Education Bldg.
Friday, April 5, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Simkins Hall and the Chapel
MARK TWAIN ALUMNI RINGERS IN WORSHIP
Don’t miss worship on Sunday, April 14, as the Mark Twain Alumni Ringers, led by Ron Theile, join us for worship.
Sunday, April 14, 10 a.m. worship in the Sanctuary
page3
LEGACY CIRCLE LUNCHEON
ALL ARE WELCOME! Please join us after worship on April 21 to recognize all of the generosity of Legacy Circle Members. Planned giving is an important pillar of support for the church and we give thanks for all the members that include First UMC and Methodist Foundation in their estate plans. We will have two speakers to communicate the state of the funds and generosity at work. Catered lunch by Nick’s Paradise Cafe will be provided.
Sunday, April 21, after worship in Simkins Hall
FIRST UMC BLOOD DRIVE
The Health Ministry Council is pleased to announce that an in-person Blood Drive will be held at First UMC for the first time since 2019! The American Red Cross is in critical need for donors of all blood types - give blood and you’ll have the knowledge that you’ve truly helped save someone’s life! For more information, questions, or to volunteer, contact Debi Jenkinson (debijwong@yahoo.com). Schedule your appointment now on the website: www.redcrossblood.org, and enter sponsor code FirstUMCSM.
Sunday, April 28, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. in Simkins Hall
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH GENERAL CONFERENCE
The General Conference of the UMC brings together lay and clergy delegates from four continents whose decisions will affect how millions of United Methodists do church for years to come. It is the only body that can set official policy and speak for the international denomination. General Conference typically gathers every four years, but because of the COVID pandemic, the assembly could not meet in 2020. That means the last regular session was in May 2016 — nearly eight years ago. In the interim, the denomination has seen a quarter of its U.S. churches depart under a disaffiliation policy that began in 2019 and expired at the end of 2023. Rev. Patricia Farris will attend the Conference.
UNITED WOMEN IN FAITH HOST ZOOM BOOK DISCUSSION
The United Women in Faith invite all to attend a Zoom discussion featuring the book “Our Strangely Warmed Hearts: Coming Out into God’s Call,” by Karen Oliveto, the first openly lesbian bishop to be elected in the United Methodist Church. The book traces the history of the church’s struggle with homosexuality, highlighting critical incidents in the culture and church polity which shape the church’s response. Read the book anytime in April and join in the conversation! To RSVP and for Zoom link, email Robin Henning: reggaerobin@yahoo.com
Sunday, April 28, 2 p.m. via Zoom
LOOKING FORWARD TO MAY
MAY MONTH OF SERVICE
The Mission Council is once again designating the month of May as a Month of Service. With our hearts and hands, we will move beyond the church walls and out into our community! Working alongside our mission partners, we will have a variety of hands-on service opportunities throughout the month of May. Stay tuned for details and how to sign up!
WORLD LABYRINTH DAY
General Conference: April 23 – May 3, 2024, Charlotte, North Carolina
FLOWERS
To order flowers to remember or honor a loved one for Sunday Worship service, go to: www.santamonicaumc.org/flower-fund
First UMC joins The Labyrinth Society — in collaboration with Veriditas, The Legacy Labyrinth Project, and the Australian Labyrinth Network — in celebrating World Labyrinth Day on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Every year on the first Saturday in May thousands of people around the world participate in World Labyrinth Day as a moving meditation for world peace and shared appreciation of the labyrinth experience. Walk as One at 1: On this 16th annual World Labyrinth Day (WLD), as in previous years, many will walk a labyrinth at 1 p.m. local time creating a unified rolling wave of peaceful energy passing from one time zone to the next around the globe. World Labyrinth Day: May 4, 1 – 3 p.m. in Simkins Hall
FIRST UMC SPRING CONCERT
Save the date for this year's Spring Concert, featuring Michael McClish: World Premiere – Mass of Ascension; Poulenc: Gloria. Chancel Choir with guest singers, orchestra & Westwood Methodist Chancel Choir. No admission charge – Freewill Offering will be taken. Reception to follow performance.
Sunday, May 19, 4 p.m. in the Sanctuary
page4
UPWARD BOUND HOUSE - THE FARM
On Saturday March 16, we enjoyed a beautiful day in the Upward Bound House Farm. The farm was alive with animals (two bunnies and four chickens!), vegetables, flowers, and children's murals. We helped move newly delivered mulch to level out walking paths and non-planting areas. It was a pleasure to meet the Farm Operator, Brett, and some of the regular volunteers (college and highschool students freely giving their time and energy!). If you are interested in helping sustain this urban farm through gardening, please email Rev. Keri at k.olsenpaget@santamonicaumc.org. We give thanks for our ministry together with the UBH community.
SUNDAY SCHOOL FAITH IN ACTION
On March 10, the Sunday School class held a Faith in Action project, making baby blankets that are sent out to new babies of the First UMC congregation. Faith in Action is a day when the Sunday School teachers, children, and youth work together to perform a gracious act of community service.
WAYS TO SERVE AT FIRST UMC
Many of you have asked... How can I do more? How can I serve? These are excellent questions to consider! We have opportunities to serve out in the community with our Mission PartnersAND we have opportunities to serve here in our church community. All are vital ways to faithfully share your gifts. If you are interested in learning more or exploring a service opportunity, please reach out to Tricia Guerrero, Pastoral Associate - t.guerrero@santamonicaumc.org
Labyrinth Host - Walking the Labyrinth is an ancient spiritual practice, a way to quiet our minds and open our spirits to the presence of the Holy. Join our Labyrinth Host team of volunteers who take turns hosting our First Friday Labyrinth opportunity each month, along with additional days like Good Friday and World Labyrinth Day.
Nursery Care on Sundays - Each Sunday from 9:30-11:00am we provide Nursery Care for our littlest church-goers (6 months - 2 years). We are looking for a team of rotating volunteers who have a special heart for caring for this age group. A background check and Safe Sanctuary training are required.
Lay Lector - Each Sunday in worship, you will see people from the church community helping to lead worship. If you are interested in being part of this rotating list, please let us know.
Welcome Ambassador - This opportunity is for anyone interested in the spiritual practice of hospitality and embodying Christ’s welcome for all people. This includes greeting people in front of the Sanctuary on Sunday mornings, before worship from 9:40 -10 a.m., including assisting those with walkers or wheelchairs, greeting little children, and getting to play with dogs as they pass by on their morning walk!
Usher - Another opportunity for someone who is interested in the spiritual practice of hospitality. This role is both before and during worship, and part of a monthly rotating team of volunteers. Training will be provided.
In-Home Communion Server - Each month when communion is offered in church, members of the Communion Server Ministry take communion out to those who cannot be present during the service. We offer training and on-going support to our communion servers.
Sing in the Chancel Choir - We always welcome new members who would like to sing with the choir! Rehearsals on Thursday evenings, and sing in church each Sunday morning. Contact Jim Smith if you are interested: djes@roadrunner.com
page5
DEATHS
We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of these departed loved ones:
First UMC member Steve DeHoyos' mother, Rose Marie DeHoyos, died March 13, 2024.
First UMC member Joyce Ann Rose died March 22, 2024. A memorial will be held Saturday, April 6, 1 p.m., in the Sanctuary.
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to First UMC member Todd Erlandson, who was one of seven Chapter members of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) elevated to Fellowship status. One of the highest honors that AIA awards, Fellowship celebrates practitioners with at least ten years of Architect membership, who have made significant contributions to the profession and to society, who exemplify architectural excellence, and whose work has had a profound influence or ripple effect. Congratulations, Todd!
Congratulations to First UMC member Maddy Ing, who will be attending Emory College for a residency in general surgery starting July 1.
Congratulations to Leslie Ward, who was part of the team on the short film, “The Last Repair Shop,” which won an Oscar for Best Documentary Short.
THANK YOU FROM 580 CAFE
From 580 Café/Wesley Foundation serving UCLA Executive Director Jeanne Roe Smith:
“On behalf of our 580 Cafe community at UCLA, we want to extend our sincere gratitude for your generosity and careour recent visits with you remind us of our deep connection to beloved community that is evidenced at Santa Monica First. Our students truly felt loved and welcomed, and enjoyed getting to know the congregation and enjoy celebrating faith, family and fun with you. We give our deepest thanks for our ongoing relationship with Santa Monica First - truly living your vision of being Light and Hope in our community, church and world.”
REQUEST A PRAYER QUILT
Led by Sue Payne and Maile Marquand, the Prayer Quilt Ministry offers Prayer Quilts to those in need. To request a quilt:
1. Talk to the intended recipient. Ask if the person is willing to be prayed for and to receive a quilt. Ask what specific prayers are wished for. There is no charge for the quilt – it is a gift of love.
2. Contact Maile Marquand and Sue Payne at: prayerquilts@santamonicaumc.org (Prayer quilts may only be requested and sponsored by members of the First UMC congregation.) 3. Select the quilt, if some are already made, or suggest colors if one is to be selected for you. Once the quilt selection has been made, First UMC will display the quilt in the Friday Community Email, and also during Sunday 10 a.m. worship, where you may tie a prayer knot during inperson worship, or view the quilt on the Livestream. The next meeting date is Saturday, April 20, Room 300. Contact info@santamonicaumc.org if you would like to volunteer. Prayer Quilt Ministry on the website: www.santamonicaumc.org/prayerquiltministry
CONGREGATION CARE CORNER
If you have any questions or need pastoral care, you may always call the Pastoral Care line (310-393-8258 and enter extension 1), which is available for people to leave a message requesting care. If you have questions, need assistance, or would like to volunteer to help with our homebound folks, please contact Congregation Care Associate: Anne Premer: a.premer@santamonicaumc.org. Or, call (310)393-8258 ext. 103.
PRAYER REQUESTS
The First UMC Prayer Group is a network of persons who provide regular, dependable, and confidential prayer support. You may send a prayer request to the church at any time, and our Prayer Group will be notified of your request.
https://santamonicaumc.org/prayer-requests/
UCLA 580 CAFE SPRING OPEN HOUSE
580 Cafe Wesley Foundation welcomes all to REFRESH! Grow together and spend a delightful afternoon at 580 Cafe:
Enjoy dance, poetry, and musical performances by our 580 community. Art Auction showcasing the creativity of our students, past and present!
Take a tour of our community reflection garden Your generous donation is greatly appreciated!
Saturday, April 27, 1- 3:30 p.m., on the Patio at 580 Hilgard Ave. Limited free parking behind the church
page6
COMMUNITY NEWS
